The Ford 8.8-inch axle has a cast center section and the internal components are installed from the rear. Another bonus is that the axleshafts are of equal length, so youll truck housings received even beefier center carrier housings and tubes, While the larger offset makes the ring and pinion gears stronger, the additional sliding of the gear teeth creates more heat in the axle. I had an early '70's Lincoln with a 460 come into the shop one time and it had the 2.33:1 ratio in a 9 inch. Calculate your differential gear ratio from RPM, tire size and desired MPH. 3. This not easily accomplished with integral carrier axles, like the GM 10- and 12-bolt. The Ford 9-inch is the most desirable drag racing rear end because it has a removable carrier, which allows quick rear end changes. carriers, while sometime in the early 70's the switch was made to mostly 70's. The 28-tooth axle shafts are typically tapered and cannot be shortened. Ratio & type. and Fairlane axle housings are often grouped together because they are the As part of my research, I went to renowned Currie Enterprises and gathered one of just about every different 9-inch axle variant. For the most part, series numbers can be determined by your gear ratio, with 2.73 and lower rearend gear ratios falling in the 2-Series, 3.08 to 3.90 rearend gear ratios falling in the 3-Series, and 4.10 and higher rearend gear ratios falling in the 4-Series. The repair process requires the axle to be disassembled and thoroughly cleaned. On this particular third member, the original copper washers that were under the factory fasteners have been discarded as well. Note: Rear axle ratios are available for 2008 and newer models. shafts. For example: The tag will say: 350 for 3.50:1 ring and pinion gear ratio. This case looked like a nodular unit from the front regarding rib structure but did not have the N on it. Rear ends with 3.42 gears usually come in 8.2 and 8.6-inch units, Rear ends with 3.73 gears come in 8.5 8.6-inch units Best Gear Ratio For Your GM 10 Bolt. The unit on the top left seems to be nodular iron but requires a little more investigation to verify. When it comes down to actual shafts as well, since the truck lug in the backside middle and stronger tubes. 1-wire alternators are perfect for engine swaps or just keeping things simple for your project. 1967-1973 Mustang axles can be identified by wheel flange: Oval hole = 28 splines; Two large holes and counter-sunk center = 31 splines. These axles did have metal axle tags similar to the 9-inch axles but they were slowly phased out as vehicle programs were updated. For example, Ford says the 2018 F-350 Super Duty 4x2 regular cab pickup equipped with the 6.2-liter . much more difficult to locate. tubes with flat tops, 1969-1977 Galaxies (coils), Lincolns (coils), and late pickups (leaf)- 3.25 But if youre looking for an original, they can be spotted quite readily even without an axle identifycation tag. The same applies to vehicles with codes containing numbers alone. The Ford 8.8-inch axle has the same ring gear mounting distance (see Chapter 7) for all ratios, just like the 9-inch. Then take that answer and divide it by 100% and then multiply it by itself to find out what gears/axles you need to run to achieve the desired tire size. . 31-spline carriers and "Traction Loc" style posi unit. to the housing, the small bearing housings use 9/16" socket size nuts The Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) used in '99-'04 Cobras and the current Mustang use almost the same differential as the standard 8.8. Many aftermarket companies produce 9 Ford equivalent rear axles for the drag racing and hot rod industry. same width, but the distance between spring perches is different between Housing end bolt patterns can be confirmed on the bottom of the axle order form. larger wheel bearing housings. 31-spline car shafts. That is your vehicles axle code. duty.And believe it or not, they were also used in some FE equipped Ford the few cars and early Broncos (and some early trucks) which received Cost and complexity are two. Our expert customer support technicians are available Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m., CST. Gross Vehicle Weight ( GVW ) would Typically with just this information, you can cross reference what you need to know about the axle. The Some of the heavier cars like the Galaxies also received the 8300 N. Austin Ave Morton Grove, IL 60053 and 429CJ cars.From what I have seen don't expect to find them in 390 or Some axle shafts can be shortened and a new spline machined in place. The Lincoln Continental style of disc brakes use 11-inch rotors. Gear Ratios - RPM from Speed, Rear & Trans. Generally most cars received the small axle bearings and 28-spline axle Give us a call at 800-216-1632 to get started. If you need the Rear Axle Ratio for a vehicle produced before 2008, contact ourCustomer Relationship Center via Chat or call us at 800-392-3673. in cars and trucks. it was very complete. Like the H in our case shows a car with a limited-slip differential. Before you embark on the rebuild and start scouring local scrap yards and online websites, it will be helpful to understand what to look for and what to avoid in these axles. It was required to repair a leaking weld. This is because the supply is limited to GM Tri 5 55-57 Chevy Complete 9" Rear End Package. Let's see, I have had 2.79. There are several reasons for this. 1960-1967 two dimples, flat center band, oil level hole in the back cover. control arm mount. as the Mustang. This bearing is one of the reasons that the 9-inch has the reputation for being bulletproof. When it comes down to actual shafts as well, since the truck lug 1/2 in Ring Gear Bolts: WCN-B: Ford Pass '63-64: 3.50: 9 in: NL4-1/2 in Ring Gear Bolts . The additional straddle mount pocket bearing provides additional support to the pinion head during high-torque events. The answer lies in several of the Ford 9-inchs design aspects, starting with the Ford 9 inch gears. The large 9-inch diameter ring gear (where the axle derives its name from), combined with its offset to the pinion gear makes for a larger ring and pinion contact surface area, increasing strength. The 1958s and 1959s have two dimples on either side of the housing and some have drain plugs. and this style of center carrier housing is best suited for drag cars or Select the Towing Guide for your vehicle's model year. The The axle was developed to replace the Ford 9-inch axle.This axle is still in production today for a variety of Ford vehicles. medianet_crid = "364974658"; Tip: To search the Towing Guide, press CTRL + F to open a search box in your . earlier housings used in cars from 1957 to mid 1960s tended to be the pattern (same as older Jeep), a 65-inch width at the wheel mounting surfaces, Customers are invited to participate in a survey administered by MaritzCX, an independent, third-party supplier. A (final drop). The ring gear speed sensor is shown in the upper right-hand portion of the photograph. The third member supports all of the gears and bearings, which allows for easier gear ratio swaps if you have multiple third members. These tags provided information for the service technicians but wasnt that important for the vehicle assembly plants. Ford used medianet_versionId = "3111299"; The The 1966 Mustang had 14 possible rear gear ratio/differential combinations. Interestingly, the Ford axle uses the exact same size of tapered roller bearings as the GM 12-bolt. Ford Aerostar: The 8.8-Inch axle . The typical 3 inch-diameter tubes can be a bit flimsy in higher-power applications. About 8 months ago, I came across someone who had a very complete model, ratio chart for 9 in rears, After a computer crash, I have lost it. The center section is the differential assembly. The 10,41 gear ratio is also great for off-road activities . The Ford 8.8-inch is very similar to the General Motors (GM) 878-inch, 12-bolt axle. determine which axle housing many cars and trucks received. It is quite strong since it was designed to handel the 260 V8 engine, the 8 inch can also be beefed up for even more power with custom racing or Hot Rod parts. Since these housings were a series of stamped-steel pieces all welded together, there were many different overall lengths, tubes sections, mounting brackets, and even general constructions over the years (see Chapter 5). 3. Nine Inch Rear Axle. wood and natural gas. The Ford Explorer uses an independentstyle Carrier made out of cast aluminum. The exception is the 2002-2003 Ford Explorer Sport which still used the solid rear 8.8-Inch axle. 8.75, 9.25, Ford 9 inch, and GM's 8.25 inch . of course most desirable is the N case, first used on the 427 Galaxies housings. larger wheel bearing housings. The Ford 8.8 is an automotive axle manufactured by Ford Motor Company at the Sterling Axle Plant in Sterling Heights, MI.It was first used in model year 1983 Ford trucks. I'm not responsible for incorrect information, Width: all measurements are flange to flange, Ford Rear Axle Assembly Identification - Page 01 - FORDification.com. One exception to this was Ford rear ends, or differentials, were manufactured by either the Dana Corporation or Ford. 4. These axles had a stout 2.25-inch ring gear offset as compared to a 1.5-inch ring gear offset of the later 8.8-inch axle. There may be other labels attached to that pillar so pay attention to one that looks similar to the one below. The aftermarket has responded to this by offering a plethora of ratios ranging from 2.91 to 6.50:1. The WAR, WAA, and WAB cases have the same ribbing as the N case, but are missing the ever important N feature. Call 800.979.0122, 7am-10pm, everyday. It has more ground clearance than a Dana 60. other Ford Ranger enthusiasts. Chevy differentials: how to rebuild the 10- and 12 . The other identification information, 9, as observed from the chart, indicates a 3.55 gear ratio of the Ford F-150. Here are the internal sides of the same three units. Most 1972 and earlier 31-tooth spline shafts can be shortened and 1973 and later versions typically cannot be resplined. The larger offset is better for strength and noise but worse for sliding and efficiency. 7.5 inch, 8.5 inch, 10.5 inch. The Maverick 8" or Ranger 7.5 and 8.8 are good options. The rear-end housing has a vast amount of ford 9-inch gear ratios available. 2. allow larger ring gear to fit. i.e. WJ Handy Dad recommends safe practices when working on vehicles/homes and or with tools seen or implied in this video. Dive into some of the history and unique differences between Ford and Chevy spindles for solid front axles and what will perform best on your hot rod. Axle Size/Strength Chart; Explained Videos; Tech Articles; 9-Inch Ford. There is typically a stamped steel cover that must be removed to gain access to the internals. Identifying a differential hinges the ability to distinguish the two primary rear-end types---the 8- or 9-inch rear end---denoting ring-gear size. Axle code. This is a sampling of some of them. Anyone know? The Ford 9 inch rear end is one of the most popular axles in automotive history. 31-spline axles and carriers for most trucks. With the pinion gear and differential in place, rear-end marking compound in place, and with the bearings only "snug" (just tight enough to eliminate any "play"), check the pinion depth by way of the contact pattern that can be found by the rotation of the pinion against the ring gear. and Fairlane axle housings are often grouped together because they are the Like the 9-inch, the 8-inch uses no carrier breaks, meaning you can put a 5.43:1 ring and pinion in a 2.79:1 rear without changing to a smaller differential carrier. This is a major advantage compared to other rear axle systems because disassembly is faster and more convenient. In the early days of hot rodding, with the majority of hot rods being Fords, it stands to reason the '30s and '40s Ford "banjo" rearend dominated the scene. In order to allow for the additional straddle mounted bearing and casting support structure, the hypoid offset needs to be large enough to clear the differential case. Performance Front & Rearends GM Vehicles 65-66 Mustang = 57.25 inches. These shafts had a longer brake spacing offset and a unique brake drum register diameter of 2.870 inches, which was uncommon for the time. more plentiful starting in the early 1970's, many of the units found today General Motors rear end differentials are referred to by the diameter of the ring gear, i.e. It has been said that it has a higher Note the ring diameter cast into the housing above the pinion. There are four versions of the nodular iron third members that were produced from the factory. For a Ford 9 inch rear end, swapping gears is fairly easy as it has a removable third member. The Ford version uses larger axle shafts and different lube flow strategy. 9-inch (cars) have a 5-on-5 bolt circle and the axles cannot be shortened. 61.25 inches, 1967-1971 Comets, Cougars, Fairlanes 59.25 inches, 1967-1973 medium and big block Mustangs and Cougars, 1966-1971 Fairlanes, Torinos, Montegos, Comets, and other Required fields are marked *if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'gmundcars_com-large-billboard-2','ezslot_9',168,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-gmundcars_com-large-billboard-2-0');report this ad. mind as mentioned, the Fairlane spring perch distances were not the same them. 1963-1977 Lincoln, LTD, Thunderbirds had 9.375-inch centers, housings were cut away at the gasket surface for ring gear clearance, one curved rib at the front top portion of differential, strong but no gears.. widths I keep in mind for Mustangs are the following: 52" Note that most, but not all, applications will usually have one axle longer than the other due to an offset center section, so don't just measure one side and assume the other is the same. It has been said that it has a higher Most of Automotive Technical and Reference Information, Project Cars, Trucks and Salvage Vehicles For Sale, 1967-1970 Mustang, Fairlane, Comet, Cougar, 1967-1971 Comet, Cougar, Mustang, Fairlane, 1967-1973 Mustang, Torino, Ranchero, Fairlane, 1967-1973 medium and big block Mustang and Cougar, 1966-1971 Fairlane, Torino, Montego, Comet, and other Fords with big-block engines, 1977-1981 Lincoln Versailles and Trucks . Using the correct part is imperative to engine longevity and proper drivetrain assembly. There are a few exceptions that you will see in the Ford Axle code chart. These were used sporadically until about 1969. if so is this what you are looking for. A 2-inch version is not shown. The aftermarket Daytona-style pinion cartridge accommodates the larger and stronger pinion head bearing. Visit the RV & Trailer Towing Guides page on the Ford fleet website. So dont be surprised that most of these axles leak from the welds. wheel drives) right up until about 1982, these housings are by far the features the legendary Ford 9-inch ring and pinion strength, 5-on-5.5 lug It's uncertain if this E We're I remember that the car had a bad pinion bearing and when I took the rear end apart the pinion would just barely fit through the pinion support hole in the case. Both 8- and 9-inch axle housings are made from a series of stampings that are fixtured and welded together. 3.00, 3.25, and 3.55; so I know at least those ratios were all available from the factory in the 8 inch rears. How To Identify 9 Inch Ford Housings Chart via Speedway Motors. of course most desirable is the N case, first used on the 427 Galaxies This pinion shows excessive wear on the trunnion surface and should not be re-used. at car swap meets and shows are the units pulled from trucks with the But to be correct, it is a 3/4 fl oat. housings also evolved over the years: The Here is a picture of the milling machine cutting new spline teeth after the axle has been cut to length. In the 1980s and 1990s, the Lincoln Versailles brakes and complete axles were highly sought after because it was the only way to get a 9-inch axle with discs in a 58-inchwide axle package. Mustangs and Fairlanes. Both axles share a common design and are often referred to as banjo style or third-member style. This particular pinion cartridge is well reinforced and much stronger than the stock production cartridge. common carrier housing found is the C7AW-E. GM A-Body Complete 9" Rear End Packages. same width, but the distance between spring perches is different between Buyers Guide. Ford intermediates with big blocks. Only the N-series cases are made out of the stronger, more desirable, nodular iron. We'll work to keep you motivated and informed and with industry news, product information and reviews, event coverage, and well-curated articles and stories intended to inspire and educate. T & C FORD TOP LOADER 4 SPEED WIDE RATIO 2ND GEAR 31 TOOTH showing . many half ton trucks continued to utilize the 9-inch (both 2 wheel & 4 socket size and 7/16" fine thread. If the socket fits (as shown in our photo below) it is a Ford 8-inch housing. Ford 9.5 PRO GEAR* *PRO GEAR RATIO PART NO. popular early swap being the 1957-1959 Ford for the 1965/1966 Mustang. Discount is automatically applied. But 10.168 / 4.70 (to determine the equivalent rear-gear ratio) equals 2.16:1, which is not realistic. Note the weld on the top of the axle center section along with the oval-shaped dimples on the rear section. Watch the video for all the details and you'll wonder why your shop hasn't had a set sooner! The narrowest production 9-inch axle is 56.375 inches. It was also used in the 1983-1996 full-size Bronco, and E150 Econoline . (The third digit of the axle code identifies the ratio and/or capacity of the front axle, if applicable. How can one verify "Posi" without taking the differential apart? Because of their strength, youll see these 9 inch rear ends used in just about every make of car, truck, and customs. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The 800-646-6718. Finally, using bearing retainers that secure the axle at the flange, versus a C-clip style that secure the axles at the differential, means in the case of axle failure the axle flange and wheel will stay with the housing and not leave the vehicle, potentially causing brake failure and lack of control on the racing surface. Builder V8 Billys 1966 Ford Fairlane Twin Turbo 427 RestoMod was built for Street and Strip. Variations You will also learn how to identify the codes in Ford vehicles. at car swap meets and shows are the units pulled from trucks with the The straddle-mounted pinion has a roller bearing in the gear case, which provides additional support for the pinion under heavy loads. . by the size of the nuts and thread used to retain the brake backing plates 4.09 Front, 4.11 Rear Ratio Differential Ring and Pinon Front and Rear Complete Kit for 8.5 Front (Inch), 9 Rear (Inch) (10 Front, Dropout Rear) . 1957 . determine which axle housing many cars and trucks received. to the housing, the small bearing housings use 9/16" socket size nuts Besides the styling of the Ford Edsel, even the axle shafts were very unusual. nickel content and better casting than the earlier single ribbed cases it You can then enter any term, such as Axle Ratio,to search the guide. With its 2.250-inch offset, the Ford 9 inch gears hypoid distance is greater than popular competitors, most of which are at 1.5 inches or even less. 1/2 ton 4X4 pickups! "N Case" was no longer needed for passenger car/truck There is a machined roller bearing race on the pinion head portion that points at the differential opposite thetapered bearing races. The best gear ratio for a GM 10 bolt is 10,41 because it is the only ratio that allows your engine to turn 10,41 times per minute. These labels have a specific code that is similar to the axle code on the 9-inch axles. popular early swap being the 1957-1959 Ford for the 1965/1966 Mustang. People have been climbing around scrap yards for years to find the best examples of the 9-inch axle. housings also evolved over the years: The 9-inch third-member bottom fasteners, on the left, can only be accessed with a wrench. The chart is based on RPM levels at 65 mph (105 kph) and a drive train running at a 1:1 gearing ratio, meaning the . It The rear-end housing has a vast amount of ford 9-inch gear ratios available. You are correct sir, these are the standard ratios for 65-66. When you buy through our links, we may get a commission. Aftermarket vendors are actually re-casting these cases in very strong nodular iron, so more often than not it is easiest just to purchase a new case. The following chart of Tire sizes and axle gear ratios are meant to give a general idea of the relationship between the differential gear ratio and the tire size and what effect the ratio has on power output and fuel economy. the few cars and early Broncos (and some early trucks) which received The Final Drive Ratio shows you how many times the engine turns for one complete turn of the tires. Select the Towing Guide for your vehicle's model year. In order to verify a nodular unit, you need to look on the inside of the casting. The Ford Axle code chart is a handy tool for positraction replacements. 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